Have you inherited a bland dining area in your home? Don’t know where to start to create a space that you love?
See what steps we took to design a new-build home for our super cool clients, including the dining room.
The first step is to measure the space for an appropriately sized dining table and rug. Leave no less than 4’ around the table for the passage of people to find their seats, which is measured from the edge of the table to the nearest wall or credenza. If your dining table is long, consider 2 identical chandeliers. If round or square your chandelier diameter should be half to 3/4 the width of the table and the bottom of the chandelier should be between 28”-30” above your table surface. (Usually, dining tables are 30” tall, so you can do the math if your new table is awaiting delivery.)
Make sure your rug sits under the chairs when chairs are pulled out while your guests are getting situated. It’s also best for your hard floors to surround your rug, rather than having the rug touch any wall. This creates a more elegant flow and defines the room. If basic rug sizes don’t fit, consider having a larger rug cut down by a professional, or create a custom rug perfect for the room size.
The next step is to consider an easy-on-the-eyes wall color, and if you are lucky you can add wall details such as millwork in a matching or contrasting paint color. (Check out how we accented the pass-through to the billiard room.) We opted to add sconce lights on each end of the countertop pass-through to create a balanced flow from one room to the other.
Next, consider window treatments. If you have a great view you may decide to forgo curtain panels or shades and opt for a valance above the window.
Your next step is styling! Appropriately sized wall art and natural elements like greenery create a lived-in home. Whether you have a large family or small, setting the table with place-mats and fabric napkins in rings, invites your family to simply sit down with a food-filled plate in hand into a beautifully designed dining room.
